A Fresh Library Pick.
As usual, we went to the Children's Library last Friday, our designated library day. The kids settled on our usual spot, and checked out some books they could read and borrow. The library staff approached them after some time and invited them to participate in the Maker's Space activity.
On the other hand, I wandered through the aisles and checked the parent's references section, poetry, and non-fiction area until I saw this book with a simple, yet captivating cover— Vincent and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers by Deborah Heiligman.
We've covered Van Gogh's art in our homeschool and we've always been intrigued by Vincent and his paintings, but have not deeply delved into the personal side of his story.
Page-Turning.
I returned to our seat and started reading. As the title suggests, it talks about Vincent and his brother, Theo Van Gogh.
The author’s writing is fluid and engaging. It feels like you’re sitting down for coffee with a friend who’s telling you a fascinating story, rather than reading a biography.
The author expertly laid the story through her meticulous research and analysis of 658 letters that Vincent wrote to his brother, Theo.
The book doesn’t just focus on Vincent as the artist we all know; it paints a fuller picture of his life, including his childhood with Theo by his side.
The book also includes pages that showcase some of Vincent’s artwork, which are beautifully integrated into the narrative.
Oh well, like this post has been sitting in my drafts for five days already, I can only afford to read a few minutes a day. But it's always a captivating time, like I'm stepping into another world where letters become lifelines and every brushstroke has a story to tell.
Each time I pick it up, I I know I’m unraveling a bit more of Vincent and his connection with Theo. It’s a slow read, but a meaningful one.
All photos are taken from pages of the book, Vincent and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers.